The procedures used to support a person in cardiac or respiratory arrest are called Basic Life Support (BLS).

Oxygen is taken into the lungs and transported throughout the body by the circulation of blood driven by the heart.
When breathing or circulation stops, the situation quickly becomes life-threatening.

Even in large cities, it may take several minutes for emergency medical services to arrive.
It is widely recognized that brain injury can begin within a few minutes if the heart stops. For this reason, Basic Life Support should be started as soon as possible when necessary.

When trained medical professionals or emergency personnel arrive, transfer care to them promptly.

■Basic Life Support Equipment

An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a device designed to analyze the heart rhythm and deliver an electrical shock when necessary to help restore a normal heartbeat.

AEDs were once limited to use by medical professionals, but they are now commonly installed in public places and can be used by trained laypersons.

When powered on, the AED provides clear voice instructions to guide the rescuer through the process.

An AED should be used on a person who is unresponsive and not breathing normally.